Member for Bathurst Paul Toole today announced Lithgow Library will receive $452,940 in funding thanks to the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government’s Public Library Infrastructure Grant program.
The funds will be used to provide new shelving, furniture, an enhanced mezzanine level, event spaces and study/meeting rooms.
Mr Toole said the funding will futureproof the use of the community facility.
“Libraries are one of the most utilised community facilities in regional areas providing locals with a place to gather to access reliable internet and devices like computers and printers plus protection from the weather,” Mr Toole said.
“This upgrade will ensure the Lithgow Library is fit for purpose well into the future and caters for the varying needs of the Lithgow community.
“I know that these enhancements will encourage more members of the community to access the library with new furniture and spaces making their experiences even better than before.”
Lithgow Mayor Maree Statham said this is great news for the community.
“This project is all about flexibility, function and futureproofing our library,” said Mayor Statham.
“I’m delighted that the Lithgow community were given this funding which will ensure that their library is an accessible and engaging resource into the future.”
Previously the Lithgow Library has been the beneficiary of a $430,000 transformation to the building’s façade and $118,027 for an additional area to house new technology.
NSW Minister for the Arts Ben Franklin said 21 local councils across the State will share in $6 million in funding for infrastructure projects this year to extend and improve public library buildings, spaces and information technology for local communities.
“Well-resourced libraries contribute to community resilience with quality facilities, great collections and access to the Internet, and we are pleased to help councils to upgrade these critical services,” Mr Franklin said.
“An overall record investment of over $40 million will be provided to councils this year in support of libraries, with further increases locked in for next year and beyond. This is in addition to the record $165 million that the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government has committed for the next four years, ensuring that our libraries can continue to thrive and service their communities.”
The Public Library Infrastructure Grants program is administered by the State Library of NSW on behalf of the Library Council of NSW.
For further information visit https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/subsidies-and-grants